1998 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 1998 Audi A4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
